NHL labor talks resume in undisclosed location

nEW YORK -- Talks between the NHL and the union are back under way for the first time in nearly a week as the sides again search for a deal to save the hockey season.

Federal mediators are rejoining negotiations being held Wednesday in an undisclosed location under a media blackout. The union, however, has released the names of those players who are taking part in the discussions. They include Craig Adams, Adrian Aucoin, Brad Boyes, Chris Campoli, Mathieu Darche, Shane Doan, Ron Hainsey, Jamal Mayers, Andy McDonald, Steve Montador, Brendan Morrison, Douglas Murray, and Daniel Winnik.

It is believed that no owners are accompanying Commissioner Gary Bettman and deputy commissioner Bill Daly on the NHL side.

The talks, being held on the 88th day of the league's lockout, are the first in-person discussions between the sides since last Thursday when bargaining broke down.

All games through Dec. 30 have been canceled.

From the league's point of view, three main issues remain: the length of the collection bargaining agreement, rules governing term limits on contracts and the transition rules to help teams get under the salary cap.

There are also secondary issues yet to be agreed on, including the continued participation of NHL players in the Olympics, the international calendar and drug-testing rules.